Even as she welcomes her second child next month, Andi Eigenmann said that, although not in the near future, she is not closing her door to the “possibility” of getting married.
“I don’t think about marriage,” Andi admitted during the recent baby shower and her advance birthday celebration hosted by Aprica at Rockwell last June 22 (actual birthday is June 25). “I used to think that I need to get married but after living the life I have now, I feel contented. This life is enough for me. I’d be happy to get married and I’m not closing my door to that possibility. It’s something that I need to experience in my life.”
Andi’s first child, seven-year-old Ellie, is by her former boyfriend Jake Ejercito. The second is by her current boyfriend, surfer Philmar Alipayo with whom Andi is living in Siargao. After giving birth in Manila, Andi will go back to Siargao.
The double celebration was a happy family affair. Almost all of the Eigenmanns were accounted for: Andi’s uncle Michael de Mesa, cousin Ryan, and half-siblings Gabby, Max, Stevie and Timmy (Sid Lucero), except for cousin Geoff who attended to his girlfriend who gave birth a week earlier. Andi’s Lola Rosemarie Gil was in the US, while Cherie Gil was in Palawan. From Andi’s mother side, mom Jaclyn Jose: Andi’s half-brother Gwen, her aunt Veronica Jones (Jaclyn’s sister) and cousin Abby Asistio.
Andi is due to give birth next month. ‘It’s (another) girl,’ Andi revealed during a double celebration (her birthday and baby shower) hosted by baby brand Aprica at Rockwell, graced by the clan called ‘EigenFAM.’
The Eigenmann siblings organized and hosted the games; the last was Pinoy Henyo where Jaclyn and Michael competed.
“As long as Andi’s happy,” said Mom Jaclyn, “I’m happy for her and I support her all the way.”
During the event, Andi agreed to be interviewed by The STAR.
How did Ellie take the news?
“Ellie was excited when she found out I was pregnant because she had been asking me when I would give her a sister. When I told her I wanted a boy, she got mad because she thought we could choose the gender, that’s why we decided to have a ‘gender-reveal’ party. I know Ellie is looking forward to seeing her baby sister.”
What about Philmar and your mom?
“They are both excited. Philmar and I weren’t trying to have a child but were good to have one. We’re not pressured because we both have children of our own. I have Ellie, and he has two sons. We’re stable. As for mom, all she wants is what I want, and this is what I want anyway. She has been very supportive just like the first time.”
Andi Eigenmann and boyfriend Philmar Alipayo with Ellie, Andi’s daughter by former boyfriend Jake Ejercito…
Do you have a name for the baby?
“Yes, but I can’t tell you what because I might change my mind at the last minute, like I kept changing my mind with Ellie, even after I announced her name. I only finalized her name after I gave birth.”
How’s your parenting style? Is it different from that of your mom or that of Jake?
“I try to reflect on my parenting style, and I appreciate who Ellie is becoming. I think my style is different from theirs. I’m non-traditional. I go with the flow. I am all about being hands-on, and spending quality time with Ellie. Openness and honesty are also the way to go. People say that I am very ‘new age.’ I believe in treating my daughter as the individual as she is and I respect her feelings.”
What’s your set-up with Ellie’s dad?
“He gets Ellie every other weekend to stay with him for four days.”
Does your mom get along with Philmar? How about Ellie?
…with half-brother Gwen and mom Jaclyn Jose…
“Yes! Both my mom and Ellie are good with Philmar. Philmar doesn’t force himself on anyone — especially Ellie. Philmar just plays with Ellie. They have gotten used to each other.”
What made you take a break from showbiz? Ayaw mo na bang mag-showbiz? What projects will you accept?
“I still make movies. It’s the whole stigma and lifestyle of ‘showbiz’ that I left, not the act of making movies and performing. I had to think about my well-being. My mom used to say, ‘Anak, sana huwag ka na mag-showbiz kasi mahirap sa industriya.’ Now I understand. I wasn’t able to try new things, and the life I had didn’t make me happy. Now that I have a healthier mind, things are easier. Not that I want my life before, but given the chance, I think I will be able to handle showbiz much better with this state of mind.”
Describe your daily life in Siargao, and how often do you come to Manila?
“Very ‘healthy.’ Every month, I’m in Manila for a number of days. Sometimes, for meetings. Also, to stock up on groceries not found in Siargao.”
What else keeps you busy?
…and with Ellie and Eigenmann half-siblings Gabby, Stevie, Max and Timmy (Sid Lucero).
“We are building our home, and a Bed & Breakfast business in Siargao. We plan to shoot more travels and surfing on video, so we can share our life with those who are interested.”
What would you advice to your daughters?
“Life is about balance. Never be afraid to go on adventures. Get out there and see the world. Choose kindness. Always.”
(E-mail reactions at rickylophilstar@gmail.com. For more updates, photos and videos, visit www.philstar.com/funfare or follow me on Instagram @therealrickylo.)